How to Protect Cats During Winter

According to the Humane Society of the United States, 38.4 million U.S. households own a cat. Most cat owners know that their feline friends often like to play and roam outdoors, especially if they are male. However, it can be dangerous to let your pet outdoors during winter weather. Owners of cats can ensure their pet's safety during the harsher months of winter by following a few simple steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Shelter for cat
• Veterinary care

1. Ensure your cat is healthy. A healthy cat is better prepared for winter than an unhealthy one. Visit your veterinarian often to have your cat vaccinated as needed. Have male cats neutered and female cats spayed to lower stray populations and maintain reproductive organ health. Regularly administer flea and tick medication as feline parasites can weaken a cat's immune system. Occasionally massage your cat to feel for injuries. Male toms often get into scrapes with other toms over territory, so quickly treat minor injuries and seek veterinary assistance if necessary.

2. Identify your cat. ID tags are inexpensive and can be made at jewelry or department stores. If your cats don't like wearing collars, have your vet embed a microchip beneath their skin. This procedure is relatively painless, not too expensive and allows animal control agencies and animal shelters to read the chip.

3. Free the immediate area of hazardous materials. Rinse away antifreeze puddles from you or your neighbors' vehicles. Check paw pads for salt pebbles or rock splinters they may encounter while roaming outdoors. These can lead to injuries and infections that weaken your cat, leaving it open to sickness if it goes outside.

Tips & Warnings

• Cats should be at least six months old before going outside.
• Consult your veterinary before making any changes to your cat's daily habits or environment.

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